How to get your dog microchipped (and keep the details up to date)
Dogs must be microchipped and registered on an approved database by 8 weeks old. Here's how to get it done, check the chip is registered to you, and update your details when you move.
- Time
- 15 minutes at the vet, 10 minutes online
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Cost
- Low cost
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- Your dog (and a lead)
- The microchip number, if your dog already has one
- Collar and ID tag with your name and address Search Amazon for engraved dog id tag
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Safety first
- You can be fined up to £500 if your dog isn't microchipped and registered on an approved database when required.
- Never buy a puppy that hasn't been chipped by 8 weeks old: it's a legal requirement for breeders and a red flag.
Step by step
-
Step 1: Check whether your dog is already chipped
Puppies from a breeder should already be chipped and registered by 8 weeks old, and rescue dogs are normally chipped before rehoming. Ask for the microchip number and the name of the database it's registered on. If you don't have it, any vet can scan your dog for free or for a small fee and tell you the number.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Book microchipping if needed
If your dog isn't chipped, book it with a vet, or a trained implanter at some councils and rescue centres. The chip is about the size of a grain of rice and goes under the skin between the shoulder blades with a needle. It takes seconds and most dogs barely notice. Some places charge a fee.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Make sure it's registered on an approved database
The chip only works if the number is linked to your details on one of the government-approved databases (the list is on GOV.UK). The person who implants it normally registers it, but check you get a confirmation. Avoid databases that aren't on the approved list.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Transfer the chip into your name
If you've bought or rehomed a dog, the chip may still be registered to the breeder or the previous owner. Contact the database company, give the chip number and ask to transfer the keeper details to you. The previous keeper may need to confirm, and there may be a fee.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Update your details whenever they change
When you move house or change phone number or email, update the database straight away. Out-of-date details are the main reason lost dogs can't be reunited. Some databases charge for updates.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: Fit a collar and ID tag too
A chip doesn't replace a tag. In public places your dog must also wear a collar with your name and address on it or on a tag attached to it. Adding a phone number is sensible.
Tips
- Ask your vet to scan the chip at the annual check-up to make sure it still reads.
- Keep the chip number with your pet insurance and vaccination records.
- If your dog goes missing, tell the microchip database, local vets, the council dog warden and nearby rescue centres.
When to call a professional
A vet should implant the chip or scan it if you're not sure it's working. Ask a vet if your dog has a medical reason not to be chipped: only a vet can certify an exemption.
Questions people ask
Does microchipping hurt?
It's a quick injection under the skin. Most dogs react no more than they would to a vaccination.
How do I find out which database my dog is on?
Use the chip number. The approved databases run a shared look-up so any of them can tell you where the chip is registered.
Does the law apply to cats too?
Yes in England: since June 2024 pet cats must be chipped by 20 weeks old. See our cat microchipping guide.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
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Printed from howtoguides.uk/guides/how-to-get-your-dog-microchipped/ · Checked 9 October 2026 · General information only. For gas, electrics, structural work, medical, legal or money decisions, use a qualified professional.